Albion face an anxious wait to hear if their play-off bid faces a late twist.

Leeds' outspoken chairman Ken Bates has revealed his club's appeal against a 15-point deduction will not be heard for more than two weeks.

That will leave Albion wondering exactly where the goalposts stand in their race for a play-off spot as the season heads towards its finale.

Writing in the match programme for Leeds' game with Albion this afternoon, Bates told fans "The members of the independent arbitration tribunal have now been appointed, our submission is being prepared and our application is scheduled to be heard during the week of April 14.

"I cannot give you more information because the proceedings are confidential.

"However I am sure the Football League will want a speedy outcome either way because the season ends on May 3.

"The issue is quite straightforward. Did the Football League, or did they not, have the power to act in the way they did?

"Their rules and regulations speak for themselves."

Bates has also suggested managers and staff who intimidate or criticise match officials should be banned for four weeks, during which time they are not allowed near the training ground or the stadium on match days.

They would also be fined four weeks' wages.

Bates said: "Zero tolerance should be the order of the day. Then perhaps we can reclaim our beautiful game."